Netanyahu Orders Immediate Israeli Aid Mission to Earthquake-Hit Colombia

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has directed the immediate dispatch of a relief delegation to Colombia following a devastating 7.4 magnitude earthquake that struck the western part of the country. The decision came after a direct request for assistance from Colombia's president. The earthquake has resulted in nearly 250 deaths, thousands of injuries, and widespread destruction, with over 9,550 homes destroyed and more than 30,000 families affected.

The disaster has severely impacted cities including Cali, Pereira, and the Chocó region, where the quake's epicenter was located. Cali alone saw over 50 buildings collapse, with at least 95 fatalities and around 1,000 injured. Pereira reported 79 deaths and approximately 300 people missing. Rescue operations are in a critical phase as the 72-hour window for finding survivors narrows, complicated by over 130 aftershocks.

Israel had previously offered aid through Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar's conversation with his Colombian counterpart. Following the president's formal appeal, Netanyahu escalated the response to sending a dedicated aid mission. Details about the mission's composition, departure time, and equipment have not yet been disclosed.

Colombia is also receiving international support from neighboring countries such as Mexico, Peru, and El Salvador, as well as a two million euro aid package from the European Union. The earthquake poses a significant challenge to Colombia's new administration under President Abelardo de la Espriella, who assumed office just days before the disaster. Difficult terrain, communication issues, and security concerns in remote areas like Chocó are hindering relief efforts.

Israel expressed condolences to the victims' families and committed to providing full assistance to Colombia during this crisis.